Delta Tanker Explosion: Lives Lost, Homes Destroyed in Tragic Incident

A devastating tanker explosion in Delta State claims multiple lives and leaves buildings in ruins. Authorities and residents call for improved safety measures.

At least five people lost their lives when a petrol-filled tanker went out of control and erupted into flames on Sunday afternoon in Delta State.

The accident took place in the Agbor Ika South Local Government Area of the state.

Viral videos captured residents of the area scrambling for safety as the intense fire engulfed the tanker along with nearby buildings and structures.

Rescue operations are anticipated to begin shortly by emergency responders.

In October 2024, a fuel tanker explosion in Jigawa State resulted in the deaths of over 170 people and caused injuries to many others.

Tanker explosions have taken place in Nigeria amidst a period when petrol has become a valuable commodity in the continent’s most populous nation, currently enduring its worst economic crisis in decades.

Numerous people are finding it difficult to access gasoline, given that its price has increased more than fivefold since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assumed office in May 2023.

For months, inflation has exceeded 30 percent, hitting an almost three-decade high of over 34 percent in June before decreasing to 32.7 percent in September.

According to a World Bank report, over 56 percent of Nigerians are living below the poverty line, an increase from 40 percent in 2018.

In September, a tragic accident occurred in northwestern Niger state when a fuel tanker collided with a truck transporting passengers and cattle, resulting in at least 59 fatalities.